This is the first in a four part series about financial aid. You can afford college, but to do so you must understand how financial aid works. It’s more than the FAFSA. In this session we will go over the forms needed and take a quick tour of the ins and outs of financial aid....
We are all too aware of college debt and the scary cost of college these days. However, having a strong understanding of the borrowing process, different types of loans, and how to avoid debt can take away some of the fear. In this session we will dive deep into different aspects of borrowing money for...
Did you know that the average cost of tuition is 52% lower than the sticker price? Merit aid, also known as scholarships, are available at most colleges and some will offer significant assistance. In this session we will look at common discounting methods, which colleges offer the best merit aid, and how it is determined....
There is a wide range of help for learners who have demonstrated a need for financial assistance. College can be affordable for families with a wide variety of incomes. We will explore the list of approximately 65 colleges that provide tuition and housing costs on a sliding scale and others that offer significant financial assistance...
Colleges look at more than just good grades and test scores. Instead, colleges look at the whole student. This session introduces the concept of holistic admissions and what learners should be doing now to prepare for admission both inside and outside of the classroom. REGISTRATION LINK
The UCs use 13 criteria for admission evaluation. We will explore how learners can take advantage of these 13 criteria. Even though this session focuses on the UC system, the criteria is a great guide for admission to other colleges that use holistic admissions. REGISTRATION LINK
The single most important factors in college admissions is course rigor and a college preparatory path. College admission staff need to see that a learner is prepared for college level work and will succeed if admitted. They also look to see if a learner has gone beyond the minimum requirements. REGISTRATION LINK
Learners should spend time doing what they love, not what they think a college wants. Let’s talk about what makes you interesting. Many learners don’t even realize they are already participating in pretty impressive extracurricular activities simply because they follow their hearts. REGISTRATION LINK
To take or not to take? That is the question. With this new test-optional and test-free world, how important is the SAT or ACT? What about AP testing? Is the PSAT a good idea? Get your questions answered in this session. REGISTRATION LINK
There are so many types of colleges out there! They range in size, location, and personality. Learn about small liberal arts colleges, research universities, specialty colleges, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. We will also discuss different curriculum styles such as a core vs open curriculum. REGISTRATION LINK
What is student privacy and how do parents navigate the postsecondary world? In high school the parent has access to teachers and staff but in college the student is considered an adult regardless of age. Learn about student privacy, what parents have and don’t have access to, and what a learner needs to do to...
California has a robust transfer pathway between the community college system and the University of California, the California State System, and numerous private colleges and HBCUs. We will discuss the different options available as well as the California College Promise Program! REGISTRATION LINK
